Part 2: The Science Behind Why Flowers Make Us Happy
The Science Behind Why Flowers Make Us Happy (Part 2: Color & Mood)
In Part 1 of this series, we looked at the ways flowers physiologically and psychologically boost well‑being. In Part 2, let’s dig into color! Different hues in the flower field aren’t just pretty—they can actually shift mood, energy, and focus. This isn’t folklore; it’s supported by research in color psychology and environmental design.
🌼 How Color Shapes Emotion
Warm colors (yellow, orange, red) are linked to energy, positivity, and stimulation. Sunflowers and zinnias fit perfectly here—they “wake up” the senses.
Cool colors (blue, lavender, green) tend to calm and relax. Lavender stems or blue bachelor’s buttons create a soothing palette that slows the heart rate.
White and pastels are associated with peace, simplicity, and clarity—perfect for weddings or devotional gatherings.
Research spotlight: A review in Frontiers in Psychology notes that color influences cognitive performance, emotional response, and even appetite control (Elliot & Maier, 2014).¹
🌻 Flower Colors in Action
Yellow Sunflowers: Known to increase happiness and optimism. Exposure to yellow tones may activate the left hemisphere of the brain, which is linked to positive affect.²
Purple Lavender: Associated with relaxation, reduced anxiety, and better sleep quality.³
Red Dahlias or Celosia: Stimulating, energizing, and attention‑grabbing. Great for events where excitement is key.
Green Stems & Leaves: Green has been shown to lower stress and create a sense of balance. It’s why we crave natural landscapes.⁴ A personal note here: I love a ton of greenery in my bouquets. To me, it makes the flowers seem lush & full.
🌸 Bouquet Rituals for Mood
Uplifting Energy: Build a sunflower + zinnia + gomphrena bouquet. Place it in your kitchen to brighten mornings.
Calming Peace: Choose lavender, bachelor’s buttons, pastel snapdragons and white gomphrena. Perfect for bedside tables or quiet corners.
Celebration & Joy: Dahlias, celosia, and rudbeckia bring color pops for parties and special occasions.
By intentionally selecting colors, you’re not just arranging stems—you’re crafting emotional experiences.
🌿 At the Farm: A Color Palette for Every Visit
When you visit Harvey Family Farm in Johnson City, TN, think of the flower rows as a painter’s palette. Whether you’re seeking a reset, planning a group outing, or capturing golden‑hour photos, you’ll find blooms to match the mood. And if you’re looking for things to do in Johnson City or searching sunflowers in the Tri‑Cities, let color guide your day in the fields.
References
Elliot, A.J., & Maier, M.A. (2014). Color Psychology: Effects of Perceiving Color on Psychological Functioning in Humans. Frontiers in Psychology. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2014.00383/full
Kaya, N., & Epps, H.H. (2004). Relationship between color and emotion: A study of college students. College Student Journal.
Lillehei, A.S. et al. (2015). The effect of lavender aromatherapy on sleep quality and heart rate variability.Evidence‑Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25821471/
Ulrich, R.S. (1986). Human responses to vegetation and landscapes. Landscape and Urban Planning.